Editing Mako Tsunami (section)

== Biography ==

=== Background ===
Mako Tsunami, known as Ryota Kajiki in the manga and Japanese versions, grew up deeply connected to the sea, viewing it as more than an environment but as a living entity. He believed he could sense its moods, knowing when it was joyful or sorrowful. His father, a fisherman, shared his love for the sea. One fateful day, while fishing together, Mako sensed the sea’s shift from calm to turbulent, blaming a nearby oil spill. The sudden change led to a storm that sank their boat. They were rescued by a passing ship, but their vessel was lost to the depths.

Without a boat of his own, Mako’s father borrowed others’ boats, often venturing out on rough days when others feared the sea. Tragically, he disappeared during one such outing, leaving Mako with a deep respect for the ocean and a longing to honor his father’s memory.

=== Duelist Kingdom ===
Years after the shipwreck, Mako entered the Duelist Kingdom tournament, hoping to win the prize money to buy a new boat. He earned three Star Chips and spent much of his time fishing near the island’s cliffs. To attract challengers, he left fish cooking over an open fire near a Battle Box, strategically positioned by the sea to benefit his WATER-based Deck under the Field Power Source rule.

When [[Joey Wheeler]] stumbled upon Mako’s unattended fish, he and his friends decided to help themselves. Mako tried to intervene but was knocked into the water by a wave. Emerging with an octopus on his head, he scolded them for taking his food. After introducing himself, he shared his fish and recounted the story of his lost boat. Before they could leave, Mako hurled a harpoon into the ground, challenging Yugi to a Duel with two Star Chips each at stake.

Mako’s tactics took full advantage of the sea terrain, allowing his monsters to hide underwater and attack stealthily, a strategy he called “sea stealth attack.” Though [[Yami Yugi|Yugi]] struggled initially, he outsmarted Mako by manipulating the tide with "Mystical Moon" and defeating his monsters with “Burning Land.” Mako graciously accepted defeat, vowing to continue the tournament with his remaining Star Chip. However, he did not qualify for the semifinals.

=== Battle City ===
Mako also participated in the Battle City tournament, earning four Puzzle Cards. During a visit to Domino City Aquarium, he met Joey Wheeler and [[Téa Gardner]]. Mistaking the killer whale’s tank for a fish tank, Mako humorously remarked on wanting to grill the whale, much to Téa’s disbelief. When Joey explained he was there to Duel, Mako laughed but accepted the challenge, wagering two Puzzle Cards and rare cards, including “Leviathan” and “Fortress Whale.”

Mako used his sea-themed strategies effectively, hiding monsters and using “Tornado Wall” to block attacks. Joey countered by adapting his tactics, fusing “Alligator Sword” into “Alligator Sword Dragon” to bypass Mako’s aquatic defenses. The Duel culminated with Mako summoning “Fortress Whale” and his trusted “Legendary Fisherman.” Joey outmaneuvered him, using “Magic Arm Shield” to turn the fisherman against the whale and defeating both with “Panther Warrior.”

Despite his loss, Mako revealed his emotional connection to “Legendary Fisherman,” a card he treasured for its resemblance to his father. Refusing to leave it in his Graveyard, he intentionally made a less optimal move in his final turn. Joey initially hesitated to accept victory, understanding Mako’s sentimental bond. Mako tried to give Joey “Legendary Fisherman” instead of the agreed wager, but Joey reassured him that his father’s spirit would always be with him, regardless of the card.

This heartfelt exchange highlighted Mako’s deep love for his father and the sea, leaving a lasting impression on Joey and everyone who crossed paths with the steadfast duelist.

=== Dawn of the Duel ===
In the final episode of the series, Mako is briefly seen sailing on a boat with a sail bearing the word "Tairyō" (大漁), which translates to "large catch" or "bountiful haul," symbolizing his fishing aspirations. Upon arriving at the shore, Mako encounters the Roba brothers, with Espa Roba preparing for a Duel. This scene is exclusive to the original Japanese anime and occurs during the end credits.

=== Film Appearances ===

==== Yu-Gi-Oh! The Movie: Pyramid of Light ====
Mako makes a cameo appearance in ''Yu-Gi-Oh! The Movie: Pyramid of Light''. He is seen watching a television broadcast announcing Yugi Muto as the Duel Monsters champion. Later, he appears in a montage created by [[Maximillion Pegasus]], showcasing individuals who had influenced Yugi and the Pharaoh's journey. Pegasus explains that everyone Yugi and the Pharaoh had encountered played a role in the events leading up to the climactic Duel.